Canyoneering & Other Outdoor Ethics
Desert Ethics & Guidelines
As you explore and experience the desert and outdoors, please keep the following stewardship guidelines in mind:
- The desert is a fragile environment; treat it gently. Stay in washes and on slickrock whenever possible.
- Cryptobiotic soil is extremely fragile and takes a long time to regenerate. Stay off it if at all possible.
- Keep group sizes small (4-6 is ideal). Larger groups cause greater impacts during travel and camping.
- Camp away from other groups to maintain a sense of solitude. Be a polite neighbor and keep noise to a minimum.
- Camp away from streams and pools. Water is sparse, and wildlife need undisturbed access to these sources.
- Don't contaminate water with harsh soaps or gray water from dishes.
- Pack out your toilet paper. Use the restroom far away from water sources and camping areas.
- Pack out any garbage you find in the canyons, including old webbing.
Technical & Canyon Ethics
- If re-doing an anchor, remove the old sling material. Don't leave a "rats nest" of old webbing.
- Check the pull on each anchor to ensure it isn't creating wear grooves in the rock.
- Inspect all anchors carefully! Always double-check knots, webbing, and bolts.
Disclaimer & Warning
Conditions in the outdoors can, and frequently do, change. Like life, danger may lurk around any corner. This information is provided free of any warranty or liability. Be careful, be prepared, and use good judgment.